Abstract
The widespread adoption of smartphones and wearable technology has introduced innovative
approaches in health care, particularly in postoperative rehabilitation. These technologies
hold significant promise for improving recovery following lower extremity arthroplasty,
especially total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Despite growing interest, the evidence on
their effectiveness and long-term impact remains variable.
This narrative review evaluates the utilization of smartphone applications, wearable
devices, and their combined use in postoperative recovery after TKA. Key studies assessing
adherence, functional outcomes, patient satisfaction, and health care utilization
were analyzed to synthesize insights into their effectiveness compared to traditional
rehabilitation approaches.
Smartphone applications have demonstrated improvements in adherence to rehabilitation
plans, pain management, and functional outcomes. For instance, interventions using
text-based prompts or interactive platforms enhanced physical activity, reduced narcotic
use, and improved patient-reported outcomes such as PROM adherence and range of motion
(ROM). Similarly, wearable devices provided accurate feedback on activity levels and
step counts, promoting early mobility and strength recovery. Combined approaches leveraging
both technologies further enhanced adherence, functional recovery, and patient engagement
while reducing health care utilization.
The integration of smartphone and wearable technologies in TKA rehabilitation shows
potential for improving recovery outcomes. While findings generally indicate noninferiority
or superiority to conventional methods, limitations exist in standardization, data
accuracy, and long-term benefits. Future research should focus on refining these technologies,
establishing standardized guidelines, and evaluating their cost-effectiveness in diverse
populations. Smartphone and wearable technologies represent safe and effective tools
for enhancing postoperative outcomes in TKA patients. Their integration into clinical
practice could optimize rehabilitation protocols, improve patient engagement, and
potentially reduce health care costs.
Keywords
smartphone applications - sensors - technology - rehabilitation - total knee arthroplasty
